NH Amsterdam Schiller

With its setting directly on Rembrandt Square, NH Amsterdam Schiller certainly caters to tourists, particularly of the younger set keen to enjoy the surrounding bars and cafes. However, the hotel sets itself apart from other chain properties with its carefully restored Art Deco interiors, including original stained glass, wood paneling, and simple inlaid ceilings in the lobby and Schiller Brasserie. Throughout the hotel are paintings by the building's former owner, Dutch artist Frits Schiller, lending a dignified, traditional air. The Brasserie is a stunning space, with a curved, stained glass ceiling and warm wood paneling. A simple terrace set directly on the sidewalk of Rembrandt Square allows for outdoor dining on warmer days.

The NH Amsterdam Schiller is set on Rembrandt Square, a heavily touristed area with lots of cafes and bars, and a bustling nightlife scene. It's in the Canal Ring, just to the south of the Old Center. Cultural attractions, such as the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum, are within a 15- to 20-minute walk, and the hotel is just a few minutes' stroll from the banks of the River Amstel. Magere Brug, the famous Skinny Bridge, is less than 10 minutes away on foot. Tram stops on the opposite side of the square travel throughout the city.

Standard guest rooms are simple and modern, with white walls and curtains, dark wood furnishings, and colorful headboards decorated with enlarged details from paintings by Schiller. All have flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, safes, coffee and tea facilities, and stocked minibars. Many rooms at the front of the hotel overlook Rembrandt Square, and some have private French balconies -- these rooms do get noisy, so guests wanting a quieter experience should request a room at the back of the building. Bathrooms are plain and simple, with mostly white tile and touches of black; NH-brand toiletries are provided, and there are shower/tub combos. Some bathrooms could use a refurbish.

The Dutch TV show RTL Late Night broadcasts from the bar and restaurant nightly, so guests can get a peek -- and a refreshing counterpoint to the hotel's traditional Art Deco atmosphere. The Schiller Brasserie serves French-inspired and international dishes for lunch and dinner, including on a terrace in warmer months. There's a lobby bar for cocktails and coffees throughout the day. The hotel has two meeting rooms with audio-visual equipment and space for up to 14 people, and the Brasserie can be rented out for large gatherings. A breakfast buffet (for a fee) is served daily and includes a wide selection of hot and cold dishes. Wi-Fi is free throughout. There is no on-site parking.